Dog-friendly developments in the Windy City

While anticipating yet another snowstorm, a doggie companion’s thoughts naturally turn to warmer weather and the opportunities for Phoebe and me to get out and about. This causes me to appreciate one of the newer dog friendly developments in Chicago. As of January 1, 2008, dogs can enjoy a liquid refreshment along with their human companions on outdoor patios of restaurants and bars.

It must be said that a fair number of the city’s outdoor patios, particularly in residential neighborhoods, already allow dogs on their patios. To me, the presence of a dog gives a place a particularly friendly feel, don’t you think? Phoebe and I have been to several bars and restaurants together that are within walking distance of home. However, for some reason (liability?, public health? surely not as a creative revenue generating opportunity?) the City Council felt the need to sanction the practice in writing.

Allowing dogs is at the discretion of the restaurant owner, so it's not as if dogs will be running amok on every restaurant patio.

Here are some of the guidelines to keep restaurants both dog and human-friendly:

• dogs will only be allowed in restaurants that have been licensed and registered to have dogs on their patios. (I wonder how much the license costs….. we may have stumbled upon a reason for the new ordinance!)
• dogs must have a city license and proof of vaccinations to utilize dog friendly patios (another fee collecting opportunity related to the ordinance…. Hmmmm. Do I have to carry papers in my pocket?)
• If a restaurant won’t allow dogs, a clear sign must be displayed to notify pet owners of the restaurant's dog unfriendly policy.
• The ordinance does not apply to establishments where patrons must pass through an indoor seating area to reach the patio.
• Dogs cannot be served food, only water, and servers can’t pet them.
• Dogs will not be allowed to sit or place their paws on furniture.
• If an attack occurs, 311 must be contacted by the establishment (this is Chicago’s non-emergency phone number).
  

It will be interesting to see how the new ordinance shakes out in practice, never mind how it is enforced. I wonder if it will be enforced by the same folks who are enforcing our bans on foie gras and indoor smoking.